The Method of Grace

Inference 4.

Hence it also follows, That real Christians are the sweetest companions, 'Tis a comfortable thing to walk with them that walk ¹after the example of Christ. The holiness, heavenliness, humility, self-denial, and diligence in obedience which was in Christ, is in some measure to be found in all sincere Christians. They show forth the virtues of him that calleth them. The graces of the spirit do more or less shine forth in them. And Oh how endearing, sweet and engaging are these things? upon this very account the Apostle invited others into the fellowship of the saints, 1 John 1. 3. That ye may have fellowship with us, and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Christ Jesus: And is it not sweet to have fellowship with them, who have fellowship with Christ? O let all your delights be in the Saints, and in the excellent of the earth who excel in virtue, Psal. 16. 3. Yet mistake not, there is a great deal of difference betwixt one Christian and another, and even the best of Christians are sanctified but in part. If there be something sweet and engaging, there is also something bitter and distasteful in the best of men. If there be something to draw forth your delight and love, there is also something to exercise your pity and patience. Yet this is most certain, that notwithstanding all their infirmities and corruptions, they are the best and sweetest company this world affords.

Hence it also follows, That real Christians are the sweetest companions, 'Tis a comfortable thing to walk with them that walk ¹after the example of Christ. The holiness, heavenliness, humility, self-denial, and diligence in obedience which was in Christ, is in some measure to be found in all sincere Christians. They shew forth the vertues of him that calleth them. The graces of the spirit do more or less shine forth in them. And Oh how endearing, sweet and engaging are these things? upon this very account the Apostle invited others into the fellowship of the saints,